The revitalization of sports facilities in Paris for the Paris Games was not limited to Olympic venues. The City of Paris also took the initiative to enhance community sports courts, recognizing their importance in the urban culture of neighborhoods. This effort was particularly significant in a city known for its unique architecture, where updating the sports landscape required a delicate touch.
One such example of this revitalization can be seen at Terrain de Sport Lagny, a park and sporting area in Paris’ 20th arrondissement. The basketball court at this park underwent a complete transformation, with vibrant colors of yellow, purple, and blue adorning the court along with newly painted basketball hoops. These newly designed spaces have been termed as „artistic playgrounds,“ inspired by the Olympics and aimed at providing a lasting legacy for Parisians.
The new sports courts are versatile and can be used for various sports such as soccer, tennis, and basketball. The designs of these courts were influenced by international athletic superstars like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Victor Wembanyama. The company behind these innovative designs, Panagon, has collaborated with the City of Paris to revitalize urban spaces across the city.
Since 2019, Paris has revitalized 81 municipal parks, attracting around 50,000 visitors annually. The aim of these revitalization projects is to provide better places for sports and recreation for all residents of Paris. These efforts have not only brought new life to the parks and sports courts but have also shed light on the lesser-known neighborhoods of Paris, showcasing a different side of the city beyond its iconic landmarks.
While the beautification projects have been widely appreciated, there have been criticisms regarding the city’s efforts, particularly in terms of the legacy left behind by the Olympics. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) requires legacy planning as part of every Olympic bid, emphasizing the need for a positive impact on local communities post-event. Paris has focused on creating a sustainable legacy through targeted revitalization projects in underserved and impoverished communities.
Panagon’s collaboration with Nike and the incorporation of international basketball stars in the court designs have not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the sports courts but have also promoted sports participation among the youth. The All Parisian Games, sponsored by Nike and Jordan, have provided access to global superstars for underprivileged kids and teenagers, fostering a sense of pride and community through basketball.
The renovated sports courts in Paris are not just spaces for playing basketball but serve as cultural expressions and hubs for various activities. The goal is to diversify the use of these facilities and make them accessible to all members of the community, regardless of age or background. By staying true to the local culture and engaging residents in the design process, these revitalized parks and sports courts are set to become lasting heritage sites for the city of Paris.